Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Students from the first cohort of JOMAK Access students use their English skills to present class projects highlighting wildlife conservation in honor of World Wildlife Day.

U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Marissa Maurer awards a certificate to a new student in the English Access Microscholarship Program.

Students from the English Access Microscholarship Program with U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Marissa Maurer and other U.S. Embassy officials.

New students from the English Access Microscholarship Program with U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Officer Marissa Maurer.

Public Affairs Officer Marissa Maurer launched the newest English Access Microscholarship Program class in a ceremony attended by approximately 75 students, parents, teachers and education contacts. The 25 Form One and Two students selected to participate in the after-school program, which is managed by JOMAK Schools, officially began twice-weekly English classes in February. They are the second cohort of participants in Dar es Salaam. The U.S. Government supports two additional Access programs in Moshi, managed by Kilimanjaro Information Technology (KIT).

In her remarks, Ms. Maurer commended the Access Program students for their initiative and dedication to learning English. “English is a language that opens up greater access to educational and job opportunities,” she said, adding that “the Access program is a pathway to success.” Ms. Maurer also recognized two students from JOMAK’s previous Access cohort who have been selected for the Pan-Africa Youth Leadership Program exchange. The students will participate in a three-week exchange to Washington, DC and other American cities in April. As part of the ceremony, the first cohort of JOMAK Access students used their English skills to present class projects highlighting wildlife conservation in honor of World Wildlife Day.

The Access Program provides a foundation of English language skills to talented 13-20 year-olds from economically disadvantaged sectors through after-school classes and intensive sessions. Access gives participants the English skills that can lead to better jobs and educational prospects. Participants also gain the ability to compete for and participate in future exchanges and study in the United States. Since its inception in 2004, more than 100,000 students in over 85 countries have participated in the Access Program.